(WASHINGTON) - In 1816 the two villages of Liverpool, platted between what is today Main and Walnut streets, and the village of Washington, which was less than a mile from Liverpool, between VanTrees and Flora streets merged to form a town that became Washington, Indiana.

The city became a focus from transportation, agriculture, industry, and mining.

With Washington's Bicentennial year approaching, Mayor Joe Wellman called together a group of volunteers, and gave them the task to organize a "Celebration of the past" while remembering, that Washington is also looking toward and "Building for the future".

The 200+ Project will celebrate Washington's first 200 years, but also focus on the future.

The Bicentennial Year will officially begin with a Bicentennial Gala, on November 14, celebrating the official platting of the village of Liverpool.

Committees are planning projects and events throughout the year.

The Time Capsule, which was placed under the sidewalk in front of the German American Bank building in downtown Washington, will be opened as part of "A Washington Homecoming" which will enhance Washington's already popular Independence Day Festival.

The celebration will continue through November 12, 2016, when a Birthday Party for the City of Washington with festivities and fireworks will be held at East Side Park.

Steering Committee Co-Chairmen, Terri Kelso and Don Spillman are looking for volunteers and donations to help pay for events.

"We hope every civic and community organization will plan Bicentennial activities in 2016," she added.